Omar Apollo emerged from the digital ether in 2016, posting tracks such as “{}[]" and "Brakelights”, racking up tons of Soundcloud plays (back when it mattered). He released the only-slightly-more Googleable debut EP Stereo in 2018, a collection of bilingual, lovelorn psych-pop. He has a wide range of influences including Bowie, James Blake, The Beatles, and Sly Stone in addition to classic Mexican soul music. “Ashamed” is low-slung bass and clipped drums, Apollo’s voice drifting from gruff grumbles to shrieking falsetto. “Kickback” beings with hazy guitar and strutting bassline, resulting in a catchy bit of uptempo R&B. “Friends” begins with straightforward acoustic strums and heart-on-sleeve lyricism cut through with filtered flute accents. While the ingredients may sound familiar, this is a unique and exciting pop record, and we look forward to more. Recommended. 

• 5th anniversary edition w/ giant foldout poster
• black vinyl pressing
• original release year: 2019
• music label: AWAL Recordings 2024

reviewed by PERPETUAL CRUSH 08/2019